2025

ISLAMABAD, Aug 14 (APP):Pakistani embassies and consulates worldwide marked the nation’s 78th Independence Day with traditional zeal, hosting flag-hoisting ceremonies, cultural performances, and community gatherings to honour the country’s historic journey and achievements.—Saudi Arabia (Jeddah)At the under-construction Chancery building of the Consulate General of Pakistan in Jeddah, Consul General Khalid Majid led a dignified ceremony attended by legendary cricketer Javed Miandad and a large number of community members. Messages from Pakistan’s leadership were read out, while students delivered patriotic speeches.Khalid Majid paid tribute to Pakistan’s founding fathers, highlighted recent national successes such as Marka-e-Haq, and thanked Saudi Arabia for its diplomatic support. The event concluded with cake-cutting, gift distribution for children, and special prayers for Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Kashmir, and Palestine.—Egypt (Cairo)Ambassador Aamir Shouket hoisted the national flag at the Chancery in Cairo, followed by the recitation of the Holy Quran and official messages. He lauded Pakistan’s unity during Operation Bunyan-Al-Marsoos and reaffirmed support for the Kashmiri and Palestinian peoples. He also praised the Pakistani community in Egypt for strengthening bilateral relations.—United Arab Emirates (Abu Dhabi)Ambassador Faisal Niaz Tirmizi led the celebrations in Abu Dhabi, emphasizing unity, faith, and discipline as keys to Pakistan’s progress. He highlighted the diaspora’s $7.9 billion remittances and announced an online passport/NICOP tracking system. The UAE’s grand Independence Day event at Dubai Expo City, attended by 60,000 people, was described as the largest gathering of its kind.—DubaiAt the Consulate General in Dubai, Consul General Hussain Muhammad underscored Pakistan’s resilience in Marka-e-Haq and Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos. He thanked the UAE for supporting large-scale celebrations and commended the community’s contributions to both countries’ development.—SingaporeAt Pakistan House, Charge d’Affaires Salman Mahmood hoisted the national flag and paid homage to Pakistan Movement leaders and the Armed Forces. He urged the diaspora to contribute actively to Pakistan’s economy and reaffirmed solidarity with Kashmir.—Across all missions, the celebrations reflected a strong sense of national pride, unity, and commitment to Pakistan’s continued progress, while reaffirming moral and political support for oppressed peoples worldwide.

RAWALPINDI, Aug 14 (APP): Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), Chief of Army Staff; General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, NI (M), Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee; Admiral Naveed Ashraf, NI (M), Chief of the Naval Staff; and Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu, NI (M), Chief of the Air Staff, on behalf of the Armed Forces of Pakistan, have extended heartfelt felicitations to the nation on the auspicious occasion of Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day. In a statement issued by Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), the Armed Forces highlighted that the day marks the triumph of unity, resilience, and the unwavering commitment to a shared vision for a prosperous future. “As we pay homage to our founding fathers, we honor their indomitable spirit, resolute determination, and unparalleled sacrifices under the visionary leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah — sacrifices that paved the way for independence. Their courage, foresight, and unshakeable faith in the cause of freedom remain an enduring beacon of guidance,” the statement read. The Armed Forces paid solemn tribute to the visionaries, statesmen, and soldiers who laid the foundation of the nation, pledging to cherish their legacy with deep reverence and gratitude. Reaffirming their unwavering resolve, the Armed Forces reiterated their commitment to safeguard Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, uphold the Constitution, and protect the values that define national identity. “The unbreakable bond between the Armed Forces and the people is the cornerstone of our collective strength. On this Independence Day, let us renew our resolve to strive for peace, progress, and unity, upholding the ideals of Faith, Unity, and Discipline to realize the dream of a resilient, prosperous, and progressive Pakistan,” the statement concluded. Pakistan Armed Forces Zindabad!Pakistan Paindabad!

ISLAMABAD, Aug 14 (APP): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday hoisted the national flag at the Pakistan Monument to mark the 78th Independence Day of Pakistan. The ceremony symbolized national unity and strength, drawing participation from political leaders, dignitaries, and young students. The event was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, Senate Chairman Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, federal ministers, and dozens of students dressed in traditional cultural attire. Upon his arrival, Prime Minister Shehbaz was greeted by children who presented him with flowers. Wearing a black sherwani over white shalwar kameez, the premier hoisted the national flag as the national anthem played and the crowd stood in respect. The ceremony also featured national songs, evoking a spirit of patriotism. Later, the prime minister laid a wreath at the monument, offering prayers for Pakistan’s progress, development, and prosperity. The day began with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and 21-gun salutes in all provincial capitals, marking the nation’s 78 years of independence.